GAEM vs VXUS
Simplify Gamma Emerging Market Bond ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GAEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.76% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $41M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.29% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 82 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +4.56% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.84% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 12, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GAEM vs VXUS Performance
Simplify Gamma Emerging Market Bond ETF (GAEM) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GAEM returned +9.84% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GAEM is up 4.56% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 4.6% for GAEM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -3.8% for GAEM and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GAEM charges 0.76% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $76 vs $5 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GAEM currently yields 5.29% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GAEM and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7890 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GAEM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARGENT 5 01/09/38 | 2.39% | 0.00% | 2.39% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GAEM or VXUS?
GAEM has an expense ratio of 0.76% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GAEM or VXUS?
Over the past year GAEM returned +9.84% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), GAEM annualized +10.69% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GAEM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 4.6% for GAEM. Worst drawdown: GAEM -3.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GAEM and VXUS?
GAEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GAEM and VXUS?
GAEM and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7890 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GAEM or VXUS?
GAEM yields 5.29% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so GAEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.